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1776-L France Double Louis d’Or (2 Louis d’Or) – Louis XVI – Bayonne Mint – NGC AU58 – Cert. #6639741-032
Beautiful and historically significant French gold coin from the reign of Louis XVI.
Key Details:
- Year / Mint: 1776-L (Bayonne)
- Type: Double louis d’or aux écus ovales (also known as “aux lunettes” or “au buste habillé”)
- Ruler: Louis XVI (1774–1792)
- Composition: Gold, .917 fine (22 karat)
- Weight: Approximately 16.3 grams
- Diameter: Approximately 29.5 mm
- Edge: Corded (cordonnée)
- Mintage: Only 15,269 pieces struck
- Catalog References: Gadoury 362, Duplessy 1703, Droulers 601, KM 575.9, Friedberg 470
- Grade: NGC AU58 (About Uncirculated)
- Certification Number: 6639741-032
Obverse: Draped and cuirassed bust of Louis XVI facing left, wearing the sash and badge of the Order of the Holy Spirit, hair tied with a ribbon. Legend: LUD. XVI. D. G. FR. ET NAV. REX. (Louis XVI, by the Grace of God, King of France and Navarre). Engraver: Benjamin Duvivier.
Reverse: Crowned oval shields of France (three fleurs-de-lis) and Navarre side by side. Legend: CHRS. REGN. VINC. IMPE. 1776 (Christus Regnat, Vincit, Imperat – Christ reigns, conquers, commands), with mintmark L below the shields.
This is a classic pre-reform double louis struck to the heavier 1726 standard. After the 1785 Calonne reform reduced the weight of the louis d’or, the vast majority of these earlier heavier coins were melted and recoined, making surviving examples scarce (rated R2). The 1776 Bayonne issue is particularly desirable among collectors of French royal gold and American collectors interested in coins dated to the year of American independence.
This NGC AU58 example displays attractive original golden luster, sharp strike details on the bust and shields, and only light high-point wear consistent with the grade. Minor natural planchet imperfections and adjustment marks (typical of the series) are present but do not detract. Encapsulated in a secure NGC holder for long-term preservation and authenticity guarantee.
A premium, problem-free example of this historic gold type — ideal for a French royal, world gold, or 18th-century collection.
What you will receive: The exact coin pictured, in its official NGC holder with certification label matching the photos.
Please examine the high-resolution images carefully. Feel free to ask any questions before offerding. Secure shipping with tracking and insurance available. Thank you for looking!
